Your Massage Questions, Answered
What can massage help me with?
Massage therapy can help with a wide range of physical and emotional challenges, providing relief for both body and mind. From back pain and muscle tension to anxiety and sleep problems, massage offers effective treatment for numerous conditions including:
- Back, neck, and shoulder pain
- Muscle tension and stiffness
- Stress, anxiety, low mood and nervous system dysregulation
- Sleep difficulties and insomnia
- Sports injuries and recovery
- Headaches and migraines
- Poor posture and desk-related tension
- Joint mobility and flexibility issues
- Chronic pain conditions
- Pregnancy-related discomfort
- Fatigue and energy levels
- General wellness and prevention
Whether you're seeking relief from a specific condition or want to maintain your overall wellbeing, massage can be a powerful tool in your journey.
During your consultation, we'll discuss your needs and create a treatment plan tailored to your goals.
Will it hurt? Does it have to hurt in order to work?
Possibly - but absolutely NO, it doesn't have to hurt to work!
Here's the deal: everyone's pain threshold is different, and it can change day to day. I’m a big believer in good communication and will check in with you throughout your treatment to make sure the pressure feels right, especially when doing deeper and more targeted work.
I’m also a big believers in proper warm-up (no diving straight into deep work - that just annoys your muscles!). While you might feel some tenderness during treatment, many clients describe it as a 'good' sensation - more like pressure and release, rather than pain they're trying to endure.
Here's my golden rule: if you catch yourself holding your breath or bracing, tell me immediately! That's a sign we're in counterproductive territory and need to ease off.
Let me bust a myth: 'no pain, no gain' is totally outdated and frankly dangerous, in my experience. When your body is tensing up and bracing against sharp pain, it's actually working against the massage’s purpose which is to relax them. Sure, some people love that post-pain endorphin rush and think it means the massage 'worked' - but I think the risk of doing damage outweighs that!
My approach? I work with your body's tolerance, earning your muscles' trust rather than trying to beat them into submission. I will do deep work, but it doesn't have to feel like torture!
Bottom line: your comfort and body autonomy are my top priorities. Just say the word, and I'll adjust my pressure or technique (I've got plenty up my sleeve!) to keep you comfortable while still giving you amazing results.
I am pregnant. Can I receive massage?
Yes! Pregnancy massage can be wonderfully beneficial, but we do need to take some special precautions.
You will need to wait until after your first trimester. After that, I'll use specialised positioning and techniques to keep you and your baby safe and comfortable. I have supportive cushions and can work with you in side-lying positions.
Massage during pregnancy can help with:
- Back and hip pain
- Swollen ankles and legs
- Sleep difficulties
- Stress and anxiety
- General tension and discomfort
Should I only get a massage if I have a specific pain/problem?
Not at all! While massage is fantastic for tackling specific aches and pains, it's also an effective and nourishing way to keep your body happy and healthy in general.
Think of it like this: you don't wait for your car to break down before getting it serviced, right? Same goes for your body! Regular massage can help prevent tension from building up, boost your mood, improve sleep, and just give you that awesome feeling of being more comfortable in your own skin.
Whether you're dealing with a grumpy shoulder or just want to treat yourself to some quality self-care time, I’m here for it. Your body works hard for you - it deserves some TLC either way!
What are the benefits of massage?
Massage offers a wonderful range of physical and mental benefits that lead to a better quality of life including:
- Relief from muscle tension and pain
- Better sleep and energy levels
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved circulation and range of motion
- Enhanced mental clarity and mood
- Support for injury recovery and prevention
- Greater sense of overall wellbeing & life satisfaction
- Reduction of symptoms relating to chronic conditions, such as multiple sclerosis
Think of massage like exercise or good nutrition - it's not a one-and-done solution. Your body and mind deal with daily stresses, so regular sessions help maintain these benefits and support your long-term wellbeing. Like any good investment, the more consistent you are with your self-care, the more benefits you'll reap.
Do I need to have regular massages to get the full benefit?
Everyone comes to massage for different reasons - whether you're dealing with a new niggle, long-standing tension, chronic health challenges, or just want to feel more grounded and energised, I can help.
A single session will definitely give you wonderful benefits. And if that is all you need and want, great. But think about it - our bodies and minds deal with life's ups and downs daily. It’s remarkable what they are capable of, and because of that they also need regular care and attention to be nurtured, restored & function with ease. Just like ongoing stress and tension don't ever completely stop, self-care shouldn't be a one-off thing either!
Regular treatments help maintain those feel-good effects, keeping both body and mind in better shape for whatever life throws your way.
How often should I get a massage?
This really depends on your individual circumstances, needs and goals! While many of my clients find monthly or bi-weekly sessions perfect for maintaining wellbeing, others benefit from different patterns:
For acute issues: More frequent sessions (weekly or 2-3 times a week) can help initially, then spacing out as you improve.
For chronic tension: Starting with weekly sessions can help release long-standing physical tension, then moving to less frequent maintenance visits.
For maximal wellbeing & performance: For clients who have a lot of responsibilities and need to be at peak form, and/or simply LOVE massage (like I do!), weekly massage is a vital reset button. It becomes a dedicated time to fully unwind and recharge, helping them show up at their best for what truly matters. This regular rhythm of self-care helps them stay balanced and resilient through all of life's demands. While weekly treatments aren't for everyone, they can be a game-changer for those who value investing in their most precious asset - their health and wellbeing.
For general wellbeing: Bi-weekly or monthly sessions work well for most people, helping maintain that feel-good factor and prevent tension build-up.
Listen to your body - it'll tell you what timing works best. You might notice your symptoms returning after a certain time has passed since your last treatment - this can help you determine your ideal schedule.
Can I have a massage in just one area or does it have to be all over?
Absolutely - your time here is all about what you need! Want to focus just on that cranky shoulder or those tight calves? No problem. Feel like having a full body treatment? That is okay too.
I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. After a quick chat about what's bothering you, I'll suggest the most effective treatment plan - but you're in charge! Just let me know which areas you want me to focus on or skip, and I'll tailor your massage exactly how you want it.
Is it OK to fall asleep?
Absolutely! It's one of the best compliments I can get - if you drift off during your massage, it means you're feeling safe and relaxed. Many clients doze off within minutes of getting on the table, and I take it as a sign I’m doing something right! Sweet dreams...
Do I have to take my clothes off?
No. If you have been wanting to book in for a massage but the thought of removing your clothes is making you uncomfortable and anxious to come in, I have good news: I am able to offer you a massage with your clothes on! This can be full body or just focusing on specific areas, e.g. shoulders, back and arms.
I can’t lie on my front/back. Can I still have a massage?
Definitely! I have plenty of options for those who can't lie in certain positions, whether that's due to pregnancy, recent surgery, injury, or just personal comfort.
I can adapt your massage using side-lying positions or seated techniques, and I have plenty of cushions to help support you comfortably. Just let me know your needs when booking, and I'll make sure your treatment is both comfortable and effective.
Is it OK to stop the massage if I feel uncomfortable?
Absolutely. Your comfort is my priority. Whether you want to end the treatment early, take a breather, or just switch to working to a different area, just say the word! No explanation needed.
Can massage help with more than just physical issues?
While massage is great for physical tension and pain, its benefits go far beyond just the physical.
Our bodies and minds are deeply connected - when you're stressed, your muscles tense up; when your muscles relax, your mind often follows suit. Many clients find that massage helps them sleep better, reduces anxiety, improves their mood, and gives them mental clarity, greater presence and increased energy levels.
Think of it as pressing pause on life's daily stresses - giving both your body and mind a chance to reset and recharge.
Can I leave/drive immediately after a massage?
Yes. Most people are fine to head off right after their massage. However, if you're feeling a bit floaty or light-headed (which can happen when you're super relaxed due to a reduction in blood pressure), just let me know. You're welcome to take some time in the studio to ground yourself before heading out.
I'll make sure you're feeling steady and ready to go before you leave.
What is aromatherapy and how does it help?
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils - botanical extracts - for therapeutic purposes. These oils can help calm or energise, ease muscle pain and tension, and support relaxation through absorption via the skin and the olfactory system.
Aromatherapy has been particularly helpful for me, which is why I incorporate it in my treatments in two ways: by diffusing them into the space during all my treatments, and - for an extra special experience - through expertly blended aromatherapy massage oils in my Holistic Wellbeing Ritual treatments. These blends are carefully chosen to enhance your therapeutic goals and deepen the benefits of your massage.
What about the music during my massage? Can I request different music or no music at all?
Sound can greatly affect mood and be therapeutic in its own right. I use tried and tested playlists of natural sounds and music that have a 'stilling' effect. Some clients really enjoy the sound of waves lapping, while others prefer ambient music. As with everything I do, I appreciate everyone is different - if you don't enjoy what's playing or would prefer silence, just let me know!
Why are you asking for my medical history?
When you book in for the first time with me, or if you haven't been to see me for a while, I will send you a consultation form that includes questions about your medical history. I appreciate this may feel intrusive to some, but rest assured this is all done in the interest of your safety - which I take very seriously.
Massage can affect your body in many ways - from circulation to muscle tension - so I need to know about any health conditions or medications to ensure your treatment is both safe and effective. This information helps me tailor your massage specifically to you, avoiding any techniques that might not be suitable while focusing on approaches that will benefit you most.
Your information is always kept confidential and helps me provide the best possible care for your individual needs.
Do you sell massage gift cards?
I do! Blending the practical with the caring, massage vouchers are the perfect gift for loved ones whose wellbeing you wish to nurture.